Is Norwegian’s Newest Cruise Ship the Best in the World? (30 Pictures)

Launched in February of 2014, the Getaway exemplifies Norwegian’s dedication to beautiful design, amazing ingenuity, and the effort of creating the most amazing cruises possible. From its stunning exterior artwork to it spectacular interiors, guests will have plenty to be in awe of with this ship. Perhaps the most thrilling aspect of the ship comes in the form of its waterpark, an ensemble of waterslides that seem almost impossible to find at sea. Apart from the waterslides, the ship also boasts a sports complex complete with rock walls, a putting course, and a basketball court, among other things.

For the adults, the ship’s casino is a major attraction that sports all of the most popular table games and plenty of slot machines. After a few rounds of poker, a spell at yanking on a slot machine’s handle, or an afternoon of water and fun, a visit to one of the nearly 30 eating establishments is a must. The ship offers formal and casual dining, from beautiful dining halls and elegant restaurants to a sushi bar and a more laidback steakhouse. Speaking of laidback, a visit to the spa complex would probably make for the ultimate in relaxation. Of course, when it comes to relaxing, the staterooms offer a surplus of it. These remarkable spaces combine function and aesthetics in some of the most stunning ways. From the most standard of rooms to the penthouse inspired super suites, all of these staterooms offer exceptional furnishings and décor, designed for comfort as well as for bringing families and friends together.

Relaxation isn’t always what a cruise is about – at least not completely. The Getaway provides some dynamic entertainment options, including live music performances as well as theatrical productions, most notably of which is the Broadway play, Legally Blonde. The ship also contains a nightclub and various bars for people to unwind and socialize throughout the night. For those looking for the ultimate cruise experience, from poolside fun and gastronomical delights to energized evenings and relaxing moments, this ship has you covered.

The Getaway is so large that even sailing past an island makes the land – and its lighthouse – look tiny in comparison.

Norwegian’s ships are well-known for their beautiful exterior artwork, and this example is perhaps the most stunning yet.

This was the vision that the designers of the ship’s waterslides had in mind when they sat down to plan this thrilling outdoor space.

Seeing the waterslides as they are in reality is even more impressive, and demonstrates the level of thought and creativity that went into designing and constructing them.

The slides are so large that they dwarf anyone and anything around them, making it hard to imagine that they’re perched atop a ship at sea.

The Getaway’s Free Fall waterslide has been dubbed the fastest waterslide to be aboard a ship, making for a truly heart-pounding ride.

The central atrium’s stunning chandelier can exhibit a myriad of colors and is especially spectacular at night when the surrounding lights are dimmed.

Looking out across the atrium, you get an immediate feel for the enormity of the space.

Dining on a cruise ship is an adventure in and of itself, and you’d be hard-pressed to find so many options in one place anywhere else – the ship boasts nearly 30 different dining establishments.

Of all of the restaurants aboard the ship, its creators are probably proudest of its deck promenade, known as The Waterfront. Its design lends well to the feeling of being on land and simply strolling past various restaurants that look out over the water.

The Tropicana Room is the ship’s main dining area, and with its two story central hall and flanking alcoves, it’s definitely the ship’s dining show stopper.

While the Tropicana’s central portion is definitely grand, stepping into one of the alcove areas brings added intimacy to one’s dining experience.

Shanghai’s is a fun and delicious noodle bar that exhibits very elegant and modern elements of Asian design.

Wasabi is a traditional sushi bar where your food is prepared in front of you – something that can be rather thrilling.

Throwing a bit of a twist on things, as well as displaying the ship’s amazingly eclectic food options, Moderno offers great Brazilian fare, including a variety of slow-roasted meats.

Cagney’s is your traditional American style steakhouse, with dining options for both indoors and outdoors depending on your preference.

The ship’s Illusionarium is definitely a one of a kind experience. Entering the restaurant is almost like walking through a curiosity shop, what with all of the interesting knickknacks displayed. Inside, the tables encircle a stage area beneath a high dome where live performances are held during meals.

The ship’s restaurants offer some of the most elegant, as well as scenic spaces to enjoy a meal.

Apparently Norwegian is all about the unexpected, as who would expect to find a legitimate ice bar on a ship in the middle of the Caribbean?

“Legitimate” is definitely the world – why else would bartenders have to be bundled up so heavily, if it wasn’t actually freezing?

For a little less of a chilly bar experience, Bar 21 offers a beautiful setting as well as a great selection of drinks.

If you’re looking for a more energizing night out, then check out the ship’s ultra-modern nightclub.

Of course, everyone from adults to kids will enjoy the ship’s bowling alley, complete with sports memorabilia and big screen T.V.s.

After taking part in so many activities, retreating to a stateroom like this is a serious pleasure. Modern, yet warm furnishings and décor typify the designs of the staterooms throughout the ship.

Suites come with so much space that you could easily be fooled into thinking you’re in a waterfront condo rather than a cruise ship.

The bathrooms display the same modern touches as the staterooms and are very well appointed.

Even the more standard of the ship’s rooms are bright, spacious, and beautiful – and of course the sea view doesn’t exactly hurt.

This flashy modern room, with its ambient lighting and spaceship-like window, makes for one amazing private space.

The largest of the suites, with dining and living spaces created quite distinctly from the sleeping areas, and their expansive ocean views, make for a serious inducement to splurge.

Regardless of the room you get or what you’re hoping to get out of your trip, a cruise on this gorgeous ship is a must – one that certainly won’t disappoint.